Eesti kunsti oksjonid

Plywood cut on paper. 1941.
Signature: SPINNERS – PLYWOODCUT / E. PEHAP 1941

Erich Pehap’s (1912-1981) rare work “Spinners”, which was completed in Estonia but signed later while already living in Canada, is a telling print. He began using plywood cutouts in 1938/39, and Pehap was particularly fascinated by their ability to effectively convey the contrast of dark and light.

On the one hand, the piece tells the story of a popular theme in 1940s art – work, but on the other hand, it clearly speaks of Pehap’s characteristic approach to light, where its rays are sharply geometric. The most famous textile factory, Kreenholm, was located in Narva at the time, but unfortunately it is difficult to confirm today whether the artist visited there or not. In any case, it is an interesting insight into the everyday life of weavers in 1941.

Text: Mai Levin, Katre Palm